The White Lotus Season Four Heads to Opulent French Riviera Chateau
Saint-Tropez is bracing for an influx of fictional dysfunction as HBO's acclaimed series The White Lotus prepares to film its fourth season at the lavish Château de la Messardière. This five-star resort, nestled on a hilltop overlooking the Mediterranean, offers a backdrop of old-world opulence, with room rates reportedly soaring up to €21,000 per night. After captivating audiences with settings in Hawaii, Sicily, and Thailand, the show's creator Mike White is set to explore the sun-drenched excesses of the Côte d'Azur, promising another round of darkly comedic intrigue among the ultra-wealthy.
A Historic Setting Fit for Royalty and Drama
Originally built in the 19th century as a wedding gift from cognac trader Gabriel Dupuy d’Angeac to his daughter, the chateau has a storied past. It served as a hub for high society parties in the 1920s before falling into disrepair. Today, after extensive renovations, it operates under the Airelles Collection, boasting 86 rooms, suites, and villas. Guests can indulge in amenities such as:
- A Michelin-starred restaurant
- Trips to Pampelonne beach via chauffeur-driven Rolls Royce
- A spa with hammam and sauna facilities
- Indoor and outdoor swimming pools
- A fitness centre and children's activity club
The property's location, just 2km from Saint-Tropez, places it near the iconic beach where Brigitte Bardot rose to fame in And God Created Woman, adding a layer of cinematic history to the production.
Star-Studded Cast and Production Details
Helena Bonham Carter and Steve Coogan lead an all-star ensemble for season four, joined by actors like AJ Michalka, Alexander Ludwig, and Caleb Jonte Edwards. Filming is scheduled to commence in April and last for six months, with the hotel reopening just days before shooting begins. While HBO has not confirmed a release date, speculation points to a potential 2027 premiere, allowing ample time for post-production. Leaked reports suggest the storyline may extend beyond Saint-Tropez to include Paris and the Cannes film festival, which coincides with the shooting period in May.
Plot Speculations and Historical Intrigue
Given the series' penchant for mystery and misfortune, fans are already theorising about potential plot twists in this luxurious setting. Could a fatal incident occur by the parasol pines or in the swimming pool? The chateau's rich history might provide inspiration, including its Carolingian-era family motto, Victor et inermis (victorious and unarmed), which could serve as a clever narrative device. As production gears up, the blend of historical elegance and modern extravagance at Château de la Messardière promises to deliver a visually stunning and dramatically charged season, cementing The White Lotus as a masterclass in satirical storytelling.
